Hundreds of law enforcement officers and fire officials will hone in on Pasadena on New Year’s Day to keep attendees safe as they celebrate during the annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game.
While some aspects of the annual event may change, like a new clear bag policy for all Tournament of Roses events, Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris said Thursday, Dec. 18, that one rule remains the same.
“No shenanigans,” he said. “We have zero tolerance for people coming to ruin the parade.”
Local, state and federal law enforcement officials will monitor the event, including uniformed and plain-clothed officers, marked units, observation towers and air assets, Harris said.
Days after last year’s parade, which centered on the theme “Best Day Ever,” the Eaton fire ravaged Altadena and Pasadena. The 137th annual Rose Parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” is fitting, said Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo, as the city continues to rebuild from the devastating fire.
“That’s what sustained us this year,” Gordo said. “That’s what allowed us to be resilient, to rebuild back … both emotionally and physically.”
Following the parade, the No. 1 ranked Indiana Hoosiers will face off in the Rose Bowl against the winner of a Friday, Dec. 19, playoff game between the University of Alabama and the University of Oklahoma.
For the first time, all Tournament of Roses events, including the Rose Parade, Floatfest, Decorating Places, Bandfest and Equestfest will enforce a clear bag policy. Small clutches that are 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted. Otherwise, attendees will need to bring a clear one-gallon freezer bag or a clear tote or backpack that measures 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches or smaller.
More information on the clear bag policy and other prohibited items can be found at tournamentofroses.com/clearbags/.
Parking at the Rose Bowl opens at 4 a.m., and the game will kick off at 1 p.m., an hour earlier than past years. Fanfest, an event open to the public, starts at 8 a.m., gates to the stadium open at 10 a.m. and pre-game festivities begin at noon.
Colorado Boulevard will close earlier than previous years at 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, and visitors can start arriving at noon to claim camping sites to get the best views of the parade’s famed flower-covered floats, marching bands, equestrian units and musical performances.
Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin reminded attendees to dress in layers and bring gloves, hats, sunscreen and water, as temperatures typically range from lows in the 40s to highs in the 70s.
Firefighters from agencies across the county will patrol the parade route searching for illegal bonfires and monitoring barbecues, which must be small, professionally manufactured and elevated at least one foot off the ground and 10 feet from buildings. Anyone grilling should have a fire extinguisher on hand, Augustin said.
Throwing any items at cars and floats is prohibited, including tortillas with shaving cream.
“That’s a no-no this year,” Harris said. “We’re not throwing anything at anybody at any time except for Indiana’s quarterback.”
Drivers should double check for temporary parking restrictions as they arrive. Violators will be towed at the owner’s expense, Augustin said.
Smoking is prohibited along the parade route and at the stadium. Tents, sofas and ladders that could be used as stools or seats aren’t allowed along the parade route.
Officials recommend keeping pets at home because they can become frightened by loud noises and crowds.
If attendees see an emergency or something suspicious, Harris encouraged them to contact police either through 911 or the non-emergency line at 626-744-4241.
“If you see something, say something. No pluralistic deniability,” Harris said. “Don’t think that, ‘well somebody will do it.’ Let it be you.”
